PNG Launches Nationwide HIV Self-Testing Program to Expand Access to Care

Papua New Guinea has begun rolling out HIV self-testing kits across the country in a move aimed at increasing testing rates and helping more people learn their HIV status. The National Department of Health announced the program following the arrival of the first batch of self-screening kits that will be distributed nationwide this year.

The initiative is expected to improve access to HIV testing, particularly for people living in isolated communities and those who face challenges accessing health facilities. Health authorities believe the new approach will encourage more people to undergo testing and seek treatment earlier if required.

Health Secretary Pascoe Kase confirmed that 26,000 HIV self-testing kits have already arrived in the country, representing the first half of a total order of 52,000 kits scheduled for distribution during the year.

 PNG Launches Nationwide HIV Self-Testing Program to Expand Access to Care

The program is being delivered through a partnership involving the National Department of Health, Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, UNAIDS, UNFPA, the United Nations and several community organisations involved in HIV prevention and support services.

Mr Kase said PNG continues to carry one of the Pacific region's heaviest HIV burdens, with an estimated 120,000 people living with the virus and around 11,000 new infections reported annually.

He said many individuals remain unaware of their HIV status, preventing them from accessing treatment and prevention programs in a timely manner.

The self-testing kits allow people to screen themselves privately and conveniently, an option that health officials say could help overcome concerns related to stigma and limited healthcare access.

Mr Kase said the strategy would be especially beneficial for people living in rural and remote locations where healthcare services are often difficult to reach.

The nationwide expansion follows a pilot project carried out in the National Capital District in 2024. During the trial, 742 people used HIV self-screening services, with more than half reporting they had never previously taken an HIV test. Eleven people who received positive results were connected to treatment services.

Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade First Assistant Secretary Dr Ramez Alhazzaa said Australia was pleased to support initiatives that improve access to essential healthcare and life-saving treatment.

UNFPA Country Representative Dr Saira Shameem said self-screening would provide greater choice for individuals, especially young people, women and vulnerable groups who often experience barriers to healthcare access.

United Nations Resident Coordinator Shalini Bahuguna said wider access to HIV testing was not only a public health issue but also one of fairness and human rights.

Mr Kase said the self-testing program would complement existing health services and would be backed by referral pathways to ensure individuals receive confirmatory testing, treatment and prevention support when needed.

"Papua New Guinea continues to face one of the highest HIV burdens in the Pacific, with an estimated 120,000 people living with HIV and approximately 11,000 new infections recorded each year. Health authorities say many people remain unaware of their HIV status, limiting their access to treatment and prevention services."

"The approach is particularly important in rural and remote communities where distance, stigma and limited access to healthcare services continue to pose challenges."